PRIMED-AI: Multi-use Framework Playbooks (UG3 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The PRIMED-AI: Multi-use Framework Playbooks funding opportunity is a forthcoming initiative from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Common Fund in collaboration with other NIH Institutes and Centers. The program is forecasted under opportunity number RFA-RM-26-011 and is designed to foster the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with multimodal health data, specifically focusing on the intersection of clinical imaging and other complex health datasets. The overarching goal is to advance the field of personalized medicine by developing AI tools that are both technically robust and responsibly implemented. This initiative is part of the broader PRIMED-AI program, with this specific component—the Playbook initiative—targeting the development and testing of "playbooks." These playbooks will outline responsible frameworks for managing PRIMED-AI models, addressing issues such as error mitigation, technical data management, ontology development, data linkage strategies, and regulatory preparedness, including pathways to FDA approval. The UG3 cooperative agreement mechanism will be used, emphasizing structured collaboration between NIH and awardees. Although this opportunity does not allow clinical trials, it supports initial framework development activities that are critical precursors to implementation. The total estimated funding for the program is $650,000, although the specific award ceiling and floor have not been defined. No cost-sharing or matching requirement is indicated. A wide range of eligible applicants are permitted, including state and local governments, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, school districts, housing authorities, and Native American tribal entities. This inclusivity highlights the NIH's intent to attract diverse expertise from academia, industry, and community-focused organizations. Submission for this funding opportunity is not yet open; it is scheduled for public posting on April 17, 2026, with applications due by June 17, 2026. Awards are anticipated to be made by April 1, 2027, with funded projects commencing on the same date. At this forecast stage, applicants are encouraged to begin forming collaborative partnerships and developing conceptually sound projects in anticipation of the call for proposals. There is no pre-application requirement such as a Letter of Intent or Concept Paper mentioned at this time. Applicants should prepare for a competitive selection process and ensure their proposals align with NIH priorities for responsible AI use in healthcare settings. The agency contact for further details is Sahana N. Kukke, PhD, reachable via ODPRIMED-AI@od.nih.gov or by phone at 301-402-3756. This opportunity is expected to be part of a recurring program framework, positioning it as a multi-year investment by NIH into AI-based healthcare innovation. Interested parties are advised to stay updated on developments as the formal NOFO is released in mid-2026.